Friday, September 21, 2007

ABC Shows Going Thru AOL

Dedicated to expanding its network and channel brands across multiple platforms and connecting viewers with their favorite shows anytime and anywhere, Disney-ABC Television Group and AOL today announced the availability of full-length episodes of popular primetime shows on AOL Video. Delivered via a co-branded version of ABC.com's Emmy-winning broadband player, full episodes of ABC programs are available today at www.video.aol.com and, beginning next week, will feature ABC’s new fall lineup of programming. The agreement marks the first time ABC's primetime programming has been made available on a major portal and also the first time a major portal has offered a full feature version of a broadcast network's online video player.

Additionally, the two companies will team to offer select short form programming from ABC via an embedded short-form player, which will debut on AOL later this year. The short-form programming featured on the embedded player will include both original and derivative content from ABC.

”We’re excited to partner with AOL on this groundbreaking agreement, which not only expands the reach of our quality programming, but ensures the finest online viewing experience available through our own broadband player,” said Anne Sweeney, co-chair, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney-ABC Television Group. “As we experiment with new ways to grow our digital business, we remain focused on finding smart, new methods to connect viewers to the content they want and brands they love on the platforms they choose. This deal not only provides additional viewing opportunities for our consumers, but also gives our affiliates and advertisers another way to reach our audience and associate with our powerful network brands.”

“We’re excited to be working with ABC to make their Emmy-winning programming available on AOL in time for the start of the fall season,” said Randy Falco, chairman and CEO of AOL. “AOL is committed to connecting consumers with the widest selection of high quality video on the web, and with the addition of ABC, AOL Video is the only destination with agreements to offer free streaming primetime programming from all four major television networks.”